American ranchers wrestle with soaring costs - and their loyalty to Trump
Many farmers in states that backed the president say they are being hit from all sides, with the crucial midterm elections just weeks away.
By BBC News
American ranchers are facing rising costs for fuel, fertiliser, machinery and building materials, putting pressure on some voters who strongly supported Donald Trump.
In Nebraska, which backed Mr Trump by a wide margin at the last election, some farmers and ranchers are reconsidering their political allegiances ahead of November’s Senate race.
The difficulties include drought, historically low cattle numbers and higher operating costs. Tariffs have increased the price of machinery, repairs, steel and lumber, while diesel prices have risen by more than 40% compared with the previous year.
Rancher Mannon said she had paid $4.89 per foot for steel fencing, taking the total cost above $300,000. Damage to grazing land also meant she needed a tractor to deliver hay to her cattle every day.
The Trump administration’s decision to allow 300,000 metric tons of duty-free foreign beef into the United States has added to concerns among some producers. The policy was intended to help reduce prices for consumers, but has been viewed by some ranchers as a betrayal of the “Buy American” message.
Other administration decisions, including plans to open the southern border to Mexican cattle, have added to uncertainty in an already volatile market.
Mannon, 63, said she had voted for Mr Trump but questioned the impact of the policies on American producers.
In Nebraska, independent candidate Dan Osborn is polling strongly against Trump-backed Republican Pete Ricketts in the Senate contest.
Another Trump supporter, Wolfinger, said he voted for the president because “we needed his spirit in this country”.
The election is due to take place in November, with control of Congress at stake.